Marilyn McKee Obituary

Marilyn Irene McKee

September 1, 1935-October 28, 2023

Marilyn Irene McKee, 88, of Gilbert, AZ, passed away on Saturday, October 28, 2023. She was born on September 1, 1935, to William F. Ward and Elba I. Ward (nee Ross). Her family was with her when she passed.

Marilyn graduated from Muscatine High School in 1953 and married Harry McKee on November 7, 1954.

In addition to being a lifelong homemaker, she was Secretary and Treasurer of McKee Enterprises, a family business that rented apartments from 1962 until 2006.

She enjoyed sewing and cross-stitching and loved to cook, especially baking. She was famous with friends and family for the giant batches of Chex Mix and cookies that she made and shared. Marilyn loved to shop so that she could always look great whatever she was doing.

She and Harry loved to travel. They visited all 50 states, many European countries, Australia, China, and Turkey. Many of their international trips were with friends they had since high school.

They moved to Arizona in 2007, where they spent the rest of their lives. She loved the warm Arizona climate, and while she missed her friends in Iowa, she didn't miss the winters. She loved entertaining out-of-town family and guests.

Her husband of 68 years, Harry McKee, preceded her in death. She is survived by her son Bret and daughter-in-law Deborah of Santa Cruz, CA., grandson, Evan of Washington, DC and granddaughter Jordan, of Sacramento, CA., her sister Pamela Jackman (Doug) of Muscatine, IA, nephew Paul Hagist (Bonnie) of Appleton, WI., two great-nephews, Dalton of Urbandale, IA and Nick of Galesburg, IL, and niece Jill Daily (Chris) of Graham, TX and great-niece Ireland of Norman, OK.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St. Phoenix, AZ 85014